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New ACC Network airs UVA sporting events, gives students broadcast experience

ACC Network logo

Sports fans are now able to watch the Wahoos—and other ACC teams—in action on the ACC Network, a new over-the-air channel produced by ESPN that launched in mid-August.

The network is also available via subscription and is set to broadcast about 450 live events each year from the conference’s 27 sponsored sports. This includes the majority of UVA’s main sporting events, many of which were previously either not broadcast or shown only online. Coupled with digital platforms, the ACC Network will feature 1,300 events in its first year, along with other programming.

UVA staff and students will play a role in the broadcasts, says Todd Goodale (Col ’94), senior associate athletics director for external affairs.

Students have the opportunity to work live productions, both as freelance workers and through a new course offered by the media studies department and Athletic Video Services. The class teaches students the various roles of production—graphics, camera operation, replay, audio and more— which allows them to work in these roles alongside professionals during live sporting events.

“From a production standpoint, it’s a great opportunity for the University, our staff, and, most importantly, our students, to gain experience doing network television production—to have practical experience and to feel like you’re a part of something larger than yourself that’s really meaningful and connected to our fans,” Goodale says.